With the festive season upon us, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and about and celebrate with family and friends on the Central Coast.

Central Coast Council is supporting a number of events for families and friends to celebrate the past year.

Council’s Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said there’s plenty to enjoy, starting this weekend at The Entrance.

“Memorial Park at The Entrance will be lit up on Christmas Eve as thousands flock for the annual Carols by Candlelight,” Mr Reynolds said.

“It’s set to be another spectacular night by the water with rides, entertainment and of course the Christmas Carols we all love, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

“It’s a great time of the year to remember and celebrate what’s great about living here on the Coast.”

The annual carnival will be back operating from 6pm from Boxing Day along the Gosford waterfront, full of rides for all ages or bring a picnic rug along to the Gosford Leagues Club field to enjoy the New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Residents and visitors will be able to bring in the New Year with a bang starting with the Gosford Races at Midday.

At Central Coast Stadium the New Year’s Eve Mariners game against Melbourne Victory will kick off at 7pm.

Council will also welcome in the New Year with live entertainment, stalls, rides and a fireworks display by the waterfront at Memorial Park, The Entrance, from midday.

Council’s Group Leader Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said with all these great activities available, make sure you have a Plan B to get home.

“The best night out starts with a plan to get home safely, and we have a guide to help,” Ms Vaughan said.

“If you don’t have a designated driver organised, check out the Late Night Transport Guide - it provides a full list of phone numbers on the Central Coast for courtesy bus services, taxis and local timetables for trains and buses.”

Council would like to wish all residents and visitors a very happy Christmas and a safe and joyful New Year.

Visit liquoraccords.org.au/transport-links/ to help with a Plan B and for more information on transport options.